West Voe of Sumburgh facts for kids

A view across West Voe of Sumburgh from Scatness. On the left is Sumburgh Airport, in the centre is Jarlshof and on the far right is Sumburgh Head and Lighthouse (2014).

A wide angle view of West Voe of Sumburgh taken from Compass Head (2017)

The West Voe of Sumburgh is a beautiful bay located at the very southern tip of the Shetland Mainland. It sits between two important spots: Sumburgh Head and a place called Scat Ness. This makes it the most southerly bay in all of Shetland.

What is a Voe?

A voe is a special word used in Shetland and Orkney. It means a narrow inlet of the sea. Think of it like a small, sheltered bay or a fjord. West Voe of Sumburgh is a great example of this type of natural harbor.

Exploring the Sides of the Voe

West Side: Scatness

On the western side of the West Voe of Sumburgh, you'll find the small community of Scatness. This area is known for its quiet charm and coastal views.

East Side: Jarlshof

The eastern side of the voe is home to the very famous Jarlshof archaeological site. This is a super cool place where people have lived for thousands of years!

Ancient History at Jarlshof

At Jarlshof, archaeologists have found amazing remains from different time periods. These include homes and tools from the Late Mesolithic and Early Neolithic eras.

• The Late Mesolithic period was around 6,000 to 4,500 BC. This was when people were hunter-gatherers.
• The Early Neolithic period followed, from about 4,500 to 3,500 BC. This is when people started farming and keeping animals.

It's like a time capsule showing how people lived long, long ago!

The Sumburgh Roost

Just outside the opening of the West Voe, past Sumburgh Head, there's a strong tidal current. This powerful flow of water is known as the Sumburgh Roost. It's a well-known feature for sailors and local fishermen. Tidal streams are like underwater rivers, created by the movement of tides.